Qualcomm has acquired Israeli digital ultrasound positioning company EPOS Technologies, and said that it expects to incorporate EPOS technology into its Snapdragon smartphone and tablet processors.

The service offers 3 dimensional positioning similar to Kinect, but without a large sensor.

"EPOS technology is based on the transmission of ultrasonic acoustic waves between two or more devices via a transmitter and a software-based receiver. The transmitter, embedded within an input device, sends constant acoustic signals to the software-based receiver that in turn, uses them to measure the distance and position of the pointing device," EPOS states on its website.

"Enabling advanced, embedded technologies for both two- and three-dimensional input solutions, EPOS technology uses only standard MEMs microphones, making it low in cost and easy to integrate with only minimal hardware and design changes required."

In its press release, Qualcomm said it expects the technology to be incorporated into future Android and Windows Phone devices.

"The acquired assets will further strengthen and differentiate Qualcommâ€™s Snapdragon processor, allowing unique and powerful next-generation user experiences for smartphones, tablets and e-readers. EPOS team members who are joining Qualcomm will be integrated into Qualcomm Israelâ€™s R&D team and will be focused on delivering new mobile device and service capabilities," Qualcomm states.